Sufjan Stevens
“THE AVALANCHE”
RATING: 3 1/2 SOUND LEVELS
Typically, collections of outtakes and b-sides contain mediocre material that only die-hard fans listen to so they can make obscure references and talk about “what could have been.” Sufjan Stevens goes against that grain with “The Avalanche,” compiling 21 gloriously orchestrated tracks that didn’t make the cut for his “Illinois” disc. Which is not to say they aren’t worth hearing. The title track on this album is just as good, if not better than, anything on “Illinois,” and it’s accompanied by a handful of other brilliant tracks that could have seamlessly slipped onto the original album’s final cut. A beautiful duet with Rosie Thomas on “Pittsfield” and the dancier, electro-poppin’ “Dear Mr. Supercomputer” are just a couple of highlights. The bottom line: If you liked “Illinois” but still want more, here is your answer.
